Seniors DeLong, Fiailoa fixtures on Mac offense

MacArthur has a roster loaded with seniors and two of the best members of the offensive unit, receiver Boux DeLong and lineman Chris Fiailoa, have been around the program and they know what’s expected of them.

DeLong is a two-sport standout and he uses his talents to be reliable and a leader on, and off, the field.

Fourth-year senior DeLong has learned a lot in his time in the Macarthur football program.

“If you’re going to commit yourself to a sport or a team, go and do it 110 percent without looking back,” said DeLong. “In life, have no regrets and get after it.”

Outside of football, DeLong likes to support other athletic programs at Macarthur, is involved in FCA, and likes spending time with his friends and family. He’s made a name for himself on the baseball field as a shortstop where he is currently committed to play at Northern Oklahoma College in Enid.

“I always thought baseball was my main sport, but I’ve got a lot of love for both. I put as much time as I can into each.”

DeLong isn’t totally set on his future following school, but he’s given a lot of thought into veterinary school and coaching.

“Everyone in my family is a coach. My brother, my dad…everyone is kind of expecting me to take that route but I’m not sure yet,” said DeLong. “Vet school may be an option. I’m a big dog and cat person.”

As he enters his senior year, DeLong understands the important role he has on his team as an upperclassman.

“Every single year, seniors are always the people you rely on for success because they’ve been there before and can be leaders. I like being that person you rely on to win games, to be a leader, to bring energy in the locker room. I like being a guy people can look up to on and off the field and a person you can rely on.”

Fiailoa follows family tradition

Football has been a part of Fiailoa’s life for a long time through his family and he looks to continue his journey with the sport following high school.

Fiailoa is another four-year senior and outside of football is also involved in powerlifting and track. During his free time, he likes to keep to himself and can be found playing video games like Madden or Fortnite.

Before games, Fiailoa focuses on himself and getting his mind right to play. He started playing football in middle school and has since learned to cherish every moment he’s on the field.

“I have a lot of family that played football, but I didn’t have a chance to play until middle school. Every time I run out of the tunnel and see the fans it’s exciting and a blessing to play the sport that I love.“

The biggest lesson that football has taught him is to not take everything for granted.

Fiailoa has plans to pursue an education on a football scholarship in the future, although he isn’t sure where yet. He said when he gets to college, he plans on studying photography where he plans to “capture every moment to the fullest.” When talking to former college athletes, Fiailoa has learned to appreciate football more with each passing day.

“I’ve spoke with a lot of ex-college football players and they taught me not to take it for granted, football won’t be there forever. I try and cherish every moment I can.”

“Football has been a part of me and my family for so many years and being on the field with my teammates and enjoying wins and battling through losses, are memories I’ll cherish the rest of my life. All these years of playing football I can say I tried my best every single day to be better each day, and I thank God for him giving me the power and strength for me to go on the field to play at the best of my abilities.”